By Dennis Laumeyer, Superintendent
Aug. 14 marks a defining day for Benson Public Schools. After months of planning and preparation, Benson area residents will vote on a referendum plan to equip our community with collaborative learning environments and sought-out activity spaces that engage and elevate our students and our community.
We have a lot to be proud of here in Benson through the enhanced opportunities we provide students to prepare them to learn, earn college credits and gain lifelong skills through a variety of electives and extracurricular activities.
Here are answers to a few key questions as you prepare to vote on Aug. 14:
- What is the state tax credit on this project? The Minnesota Legislature approved a permanent Ag2School 40 percent tax credit that went into effect in 2017. It gives agriculture land owners and private timber land owners significant tax relief on school bonds and has tripled the state share. When applying it in Benson, this group of local landowners will pay 42 percent of this levy and the state of Minnesota now will pay 28 percent of their portion. That means the state will contribute $11 million to the project, including interest.
- How do our taxes compare to others?
Benson Schools ranks lowest in total taxes compared to neighboring districts and this proposed project still will keep the school district tax bill below average.
- What about interest?
Like with mortgages and other loans, this project also will have interest. The current rate of about 4 percent is very low. Waiting likely would increases costs. The average impact on a local taxpayer is $6.92 a month, including interest.
- Where did this plan come from?
Benson Public Schools called for volunteers last year to assist with evaluating the district’s educational needs and creating an action plan. It led to the development of a 45-member task force representing farmers, business leaders, parents, staff and community members who worked meticulously to develop a plan that is the vision for our school and community.
- How is the district’s enrollment?
Benson Public Schools has seen growth in a series of areas, primarily among our community’s youngest learners. Last year’s kindergarten class represented the largest group in our elementary school and Benson Schools now serves 87 percent of the local 4-year-olds in our preschool program to prepare them for school and future success. This plan focuses on right sizing our spaces.The plan adds 55,000 square feet, updates 23,000 square feet, and removes 112,000 square feet.
- Who gets to bid on the project?
The construction-related bids would be released in small amounts so local contractors have an opportunity to bid on the project.
Attend Aug. 7 Meeting
Learn more about the project and ask questions at an upcoming meeting on Aug. 7. The meeting will provide an overview of the project with a focus on collaborative learning spaces and security plans. It also will include a review and comment portion. The meeting will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. at Benson High School Cafeteria.
Get updates and learn more today by following the district on Facebook or viewing referendum news.